Is someone who’s close to you always resentful, angry and unhappy? You probably feel them sucking the life out of you because of their pessimism and negativity. It’s not easy to avoid toxic people.

They impose their toxicity on you because you’ve allowed them to for a long time. And, because you’ve also started to become negative, you feel it’s not time to focus on the positive so you can attract better things into your life. Well, here are four things you can do to free your life of toxic people.

1. Admit there’s a problem

Toxic people can be family, friends, colleagues or neighbors. When you ignore them, they don’t go away or stop being toxic. They actually think you’re okay with it and continue to do what they want. This is not good for your mental and physical well-being. So, instead of ignoring, accept that there’s a problem.

2. Communicate

Call on the phone, write a letter or talk. You have to try to let the other person know how their actions make you feel. You shouldn’t take responsibility for their actions because they choose to have a negative attitude and behavior.

3. Weigh your options

If there’s strain on your relationship, it’s time to scale back. SET BOUNDARIES. It may not be easy with people inside your family, but you shouldn’t be afraid to draw the line. You have to refuse to be affected by someone else’s negativity – even if you love them.

4. Go cold turkey

If you’ve tried all of the above and they don’t seem to be improving, it’s time to let go – the hard way. No one should have the right to take away your peace of mind.